OLYMPIC FLAME RELAY

The first state of the international Olympic torch relay to pass 33 cities of 27 countries has started today in Athens. Olympic flame was brought by air to international airport of Sydney and then carried to the building of opera in the downtown. The relay ceremony led by Australian Olympic champion in the 400-m race Catty Freeman was very solemn. She was honored to light the Olympic flame and then carry it.

In total, 144 torch bearers, outstanding athletes, famous culture workers, and representatives of public organization and municipality councils. Thousands of spectators will watch different solemn arraignments to be conducted in various cities and their suburbs.

The tremendous events will take place in Melbourne – capital of Olympic games 1956. Then, the relay will go to Japan, Moscow and other destinations to round its journey in the opening ceremony of Olympic games 2004 in Athens.